Samsung Galaxy S4 Android 4.3 update now rolling out

The update to Android 4.3, the last version named Jelly Bean, is now out for the Samsung Galaxy S4. Caveats apply, though. First off, we’re only talking about the GT-i9505 model here, which is the internationally sold variant that has LTE support and comes with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 processor, not Samsung’s own octa-core Exynos. Second, for now the update is only in the process of being rolled out in Germany. But more countries and territories should follow, now that the ball’s rolling.

The update comes on time as Samsung had promised it would arrive in October. It brings the company’s flagship smartphone up to date with what is still the current version of Google’s operating system (though not for long, as version 4.4 KitKat is due to be unveiled any day now).

Overall, the new build is faster and smoother than the ones coming before it, as you’d expect. There’s no official changelog, but the enterprising folks over at SamMobile have compiled a list based on their experiences. Among the new things we can find support for the Galaxy Gear smartwatch, Open GL 3.0, Samsung Knox, TRIM support, improved RAM management, improved display color reproduction (making it look sharper than before), a better launcher with less issues, a new keyboard, a new Samsung browser, Samsung Wallet preinstalled, new Reading Mode (optimizes the display for reading), new Camera firmware, and various small UI tweaks here and there.

The new software can be installed straight on the phone, without connecting to a computer. You can check for the update manually by going to Settings > More > About device > Software update. Or you can use Kies, Samsung’s desktop PC software. But keep in mind that if you’re not in Germany, you’re unlikely to see it yet. Also, don’t forget that if you bought your handset from a carrier, that company needs to approve the update before it’s sent to you, something which may take a while depending on carrier.